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AN ACCOUNT 

OF THE llECEPTION OF 

GEN. LAFAYETTE 

ON SATURDAY, MARCH 19 IH, 1825. 

OF THE ENTKRTAISIENTS GlVBKi BIM. ARD OF TUB CEREMONIES, 

MASONIC AND CIVIC. 

ON mm THE COKNER SIOSE OF lONUIENTS TO THE lEHORI OF 

GENERALS GREENE AND PULASKI. 



SAVANNAH: 

W. T. WILLIAMS,-1825. 
MARLOW: E. J. PURSE— 1883. 






// 



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TO THE CITIZENS OF SAVANNAH. 

To rescue from forgetfulness the animating and in- 
teresting scenes in which most of us were engaged, 
arising out of the visit of our illustrious Guest, this 
pamphlet has been compiled. The return of General 
LAFAYETTE to America, is an era in the history of 
our Country; and every city and village through which 
he has passed, has voluntarily decreed a Triumph or 
an Ovation, to the valor of the Hero and the virtues 
of the Man. Impelled by your grateful recollections 
of his useful services, you invited, received and en- 
tertained him. To you therefore, this record of what 
was done, compiled in accordance with a resolution of 
the Joint Committee for his reception and entertain- 
ment, is respectfully inscribed. 

Savannah, Apri.l 25th, 1825. 



DECEPTION 

...-»$=:of:=^.. 

GENERAL LAFAYETTE. 



It will readily be conceived, that this city was not insensible to the 
general joy which pervaded the Union, upon the annunciation of the ar- 
rival of Gen. LAFAYETTE upon onr shores. When the intention of 
visiting the United States was first declared by the General, and before he 
reached our country, the City Council of Savannah, by a resolution adopt- 
ed on the 5th of August, made it the duty of the Mayor to address to him 
a letter of welcome and congratulation, as soon as his arrival should be 
announced, accompanied by an invitation to visit our city. This was ac- 
cordingly done on the 25th of August, immediately after his arrival was 
known here. The unexpected character of his first reception, and the 
continued engagements which he was compelled to enter into in that sec- 
tion of onr country, the immediate theatre of his exertions during the rev- 
olutionary war, prevented his fixing any particular period for his visit to 
the South. The invitation to be present at the seat of the General Govern- 
ment, at the celebration of the "greatest of all hirth days," as the General 
expressed himself in relation to the 22ud of February, was not to be re- 
sisted, and the 23rd of that month was finally decided upon for commenc- 
ing his Southern tour. Long previously to this, the invitation of Council 
was renewed by the present Mayor, and it was not until the 28th, that the 
following letters from Gen. Lafayette, transmitted through our representa- 
tive Col. Tattnall, were received, informing us of the precise time at 
which we might expect a visit from him. 

Washington, Feb. 20th, 1825. 
My Dear Sir — My route, upon which several friends have had the good- 
ness to consult together, is at last fixed, and makes me arrive at Charles- 
ton on the 13th March, to leave it on the IGth for Savannah, Augusta and 
Milledgeville, I will avail myself of the Steamboat as much as I can. 
The pressure of time, an engagement at Boston for the 17th June, which 
I would be truly unhappy to disappoint, and other considerations relative 
to my American visit, and family avocations in Europe, make it impossible 
for me to lesson the rapidity of my march , and very thankful for the means 
to expedite it. Enclosed you will find my letter to the Governor of Georgia. 
Receive my best thanks and affectionate regard, 

LAFAYETTE. 
The Hon. E. F. Tattnall, M. C. 

Washington, 20th Feb. 1825. 
Sir— Col. Jones has delivered to me your kind letter of January 29th, 
and I am happy to think that on the 23d inst. I shall begin a journey 
which will permit me to present your Excellency with the personal ex- 
pression of my gratitude to the People, the Legislature, and the Chief 
Magistrate of the State of G(!orgia. My expectation is to be at Charles- 
ton on the 13th March, and leave it on the IGth for Savannah, thence to 
proceed to Augusta and Milledgeville. The Steamboat appears to be the 



best couveyance to the two first placefl, I iuteud going from Millodgoville 
to Montgomery, where I have been flattered with the hope to find a Steam- 
boat for Mobile. My only regret is the obligation I am under to move 
very rapidly in order to fulfil the numerons objects of this so gratifying 
visit to the Southern and Western States. I must depend on the indul- 
gence of my friends. In the mean while I beg your Excellency to be the 
organ and to receive yourself the tribute of my 

Respectful acknowledgements and highest regard, 

LAFAYEITE. 
His Excellency G. M. Tbodp, Governor of Georgia. 



Although the Legislature during its late session, authorized the Gover- 
nor to ontertuin Gen. Lafayette as the Guest of the State, from the moment 
he touched the soil of Georgia until his departure from it; still the co- 
operation of the authorities of the City and the Citizens generally was 
necessary to carry into effect the laudable intentions of the Legislature. 
Accordingly the City Council promptly took measures to effect this object, 
by appointing a committee from their own body for the purpose of receiv- 
ing the General on bis landing, consisting of 

W. C. Daniell, Mayor. 
Charles Harris, 
W. B. Bulloch. 
At a subsequent meeting another and more numerous committee was 
appointed, consisting of 

Th.e Mayor, W. C. Daniell, The Chairman, J. W. Jackson, 

Alilemmn, Chs. Harris, Alderman, Isaac Minis, 

Geo. Milieu, " W. K Waring. 

to form part of a general committee, and requesting the Mayor to convene 

the citizens, for the purpose of adopting such further measures as should 

be necessary. 

A meeting of the citizens was accordingly held on the 3d of March at 

which Geo, Jones Esq. was called to the Chair and, John C. NicoU Esq. 

acted as Secretary; the following gentlemen were appointed a committee. 

Geo. Jones, Eben. Jackson, 

Alex. Tellftir, Jno. Shellman, 

Shettall Sheftall, Kobt. Habersham, 

John Screven. 



The officers of the First Regiment and of the Georgia Hussars, met and 
appointed the following officers a committee, to unite with the preceeding 
committees, viz: 

Col. James Marshall, Maj. W. T. Williams, 

Capt James Hunter, Capt. Chs. A. Higgins, 

Capt. Robt. W. Pooler, Lieut. Geo. Schley, 

Capt. E. F. Tattnall, was subsequently added as a member. 

These three committees united, formed the "Lafayette Committee," of 
which the Mayor was appointed Chairman and John 0. NichoU Secretary. 
Upon this committee devolved the duty of making preparations for the 
reception and entertainment of the General. It was divided into three sub- 
committees with specific duties assigned to each. To one, consisting of 
Geo. Jones, S. Sheftall, 

Jno. Screven, Maj. Williams, 

Capt. Tattnall, Lieut. Schley, 

Geo. Millen. 



was assigned the duty of receiving the General and attending him to his 
lodgings. To another composed of 

Charles Harris , Alex. Telfair, 

Eobt. Habersham, J. W. Jackson, 

Col. Marshall, Capt. Pooler. 

was assigned the duty of providing apartments for his accommodation, and 

attending on him during his stay. And to the other consisting of 

Ebernezer Jackson, Jno. Shellman, 

Isaac Minis, W. R. Waring, 

Capt. Hunter, Capt. Higgins. 

the duty was assigned of attending him at places of public entertainment 

Many of the arrangements were necessarily contingent; being subjent to 
the approval of the Governor, upon his arrival. They were all confirmed 
by him and the utmost harmony and concert between the Executive and 
the Committee prevailed daring the whole period; and the high considera- 
tion in which he was held by them and his fellow citizens previously, was 
greatly augmented by his courteous and dignified deportment, towards 
them and the illustrious guest he was officially called upon to entertain. 

For the accommodation of the General and Governor, a suit of apart- 
ments were taken in the spacious and elegant mansion occupied by Mrs. 
Maxwell. 

As a tribute to the surviving officers and soldiers of the revolution, to 
whom it was more convenient to meet the General here than at any point 
more distant from their homes, invitations were given them by the com- 
mittee to be pressent at the celebration. Of these General Daniel Stewart, 
Major Peter Deveaux and Capt David Rees only attended. It was a cause 
of deep regret that severe indisposition prevented Gen. Jno. M'lutosh, the 
only surviving officer of the Georgia Line, from being present; and that 
Capt. James Nephew, from the same cause, was detained at home. The 
feeling terms in which these gentlemen communicated their regrets at their 
incapacity to join us in doing honor to their Brother Soldier, are strongly 
expressive of the interest which they took in the occasion; and the cordial 
and afi'ectionate greetings of Gen. Lafayette, of those surviving officers who 
participated in his entertainment, is an evidence that he was deprived of 
increased pleasure by their absence. 

Invitations were likewise sent to Mrs. Shaw, the daughter of Gen. Greene, 
and Col. Francis K. Huger, who so gallantly assisted in the escape of 
Lafayette from the Prison of Olmutz. Mrs. Shaw, after having made ar- 
rangements for coming, was detained in Charleston by indisposition, and 
her regret at the disappointment was elegantly expressed in her reply to 
the Chairman of the Committee, contained in the following extract from 
her letter dated the 16th of March : 

"I am deeply sensitive of the honor they have done me, and doubly 
gratified by the feeling towards the memory of my Father which dictated 
it; and that though I am thus prevented from sharing in the joy of this 
most interestering event (which must always be remembered with delight 
by every American) in person, my heart shears in the gratification of the 
inhabitants of my native State , and will always feel the warmest interest 
in the prosperity and welfare of Savannah." 



8 

To the letter iuvitiug Col. Huger, the following answer was received: 

Charlesion, S. C. 17tb March, 1825. 
W. C. Daniell, Esq., Mayor of Savannah. 

Sir — I only received yesterday the letter you did me the honor to address 
to me on the 11th 

It is highly gratifying to me that the manner in which I expressed to 
Gen. Lafayette thirty years ago, the gratitude felt by all my fellow citizens 
to him, should be approved by them. It affords me high satisfaction by 
accepting your very kind invitation to join the citizens ot Savannah in 
welcoming his visit to that city. 

I have the honor to be, Sir, very respectfully, your ob't servant, 

FES. K. HUGER. 

Col. Huger was welcomed and entertained as one of the General's Fam- 
ily, and participated in every occurence attendant upon the visit of our 
distinguished Guest. 

Col. Warren of Pendleton Disti-ict, S. C, was also invited by Council to 
participate in the hospitality ol the City. This gentleman was present at 
the seige of Savannah, aud lost a leg in consequence of a severe wound 
received in the assault. He too, to our great regret, was prevented by 
severe illness from being present to join in the greetings and participate 
in the joy of welcoming with his few surviving brother soldiers, the last 
remaining general officer ol the army of the revolution, to that spot which 
had been the scene of his gallantry and of his suftering. 

Among the preparatory measures, arrangements were made for entertain- 
ing the General at a public Dinner and Ball. At the meeting of the sub- 
scribers, John C. Nicoll Esq. , was made Chairman and J. P. Henry Secre- 
tary and the following gentlemen appointed managers, with full power to 
carry into effect the intentions of their fellow citizens: 

W. B. Bulloch, R. W. Habersham, 

•Jno. Stevens, James W. Wayne, 

Wm. Gaston, J. P. Henry, 

W. R. Waring, Col. James Marshall, 

Maj. W. T. Williams, Maj. W. C. Wayne, 

Capt. Wm. Law, Capt. James Hunter, 

Capt. E. F. Tattnall, Capt. Peter Blois. 

To the industry and taste of these gentlemen we are indebted for the 
appropriate and beautiful decorations of the Council Chamber, and the 
sumptuous Dinner and splendid Ball which were provided for the occasion. 

The Masonic Brethren also took measures to entertain him at a Masonic 
Festival, aud addressed a letter to him at Charleston, inviting him to par- 
take of their hospitality. 

The best understanding prevailed among all parties, and a singleness of 
object pervaded the public bodies. Committees, the Mihtary and Citizens 
generally; which resulted in giving the finest effect to the various plans 
that had bten formed for the occasion. It is deemed unnecessary to state 
in detail the different preparatory measures adopted by each; they are de- 
veloped in the grand display consequent upon these preparations. The 
beauty and fitness ol the parts produced an harmonious whole, surpassing 
in splendor and dignity, any similar spectacle ever exhibited in our city. 



RECEPTION OF GEN. LAFAYETTE. 



This liappy event took place on Saturday, the 19th of 
March, 1825. Almost up to the last hour the time of the 
probable arrival of our venerated guest was but conjectu- 
ral; opinions were various as to the moment at which he 
might be expected, and all the preparations for giving 
eclat to the visit, were confined to little more than a week. 
How well the time was improved, the detail of the circum- 
stances attending it will show, it was alabor of afiection- 
ate respect, in which all appeared to join with heart and 
hand. As the time approached, the interest proportiona- 
bly increased. The stages and packets, particularly from 
the South, were crowded with passengers. The Liberty 
Troop of Light Dragoons under the command of Capt. 
Wm. Maxwell, and the Darien Hussars, Capt. Charles 
West, had early evinced their anxious desire to do honor 
to the occasion and had reached town on the Tuesday 
preceeding. On Friday evening all appeared to be in a 
buzz of expectation, and numerous parties were collect- 
ed in almost every spot on Bay street and elsewhere, 
every one with a face of pleasure and expectation; 

At half past 5 o'clock on Saturday morning by a signal 
from the Chatham AKillery, the military were warned 
to repair to their several parade grounds. The line was 
formed at 8 o'clock, soon after which, there being no ap- 
pearance of the boat, the troops piled their arms and were 
dismissed until the arrival. At an early hour the French 
and American flags were hoisted on the Exchange steeple, 
the Revenue Cutter Gallatin, Capt. Matthews, was also 
decorated with flags and the merchant vessels were dress- 
ed in the same manner. On Bay street on each side of, to 
the entrance to the City from under the bluff, were placed 
two French brass pieces, one of which, tradition informs 
us, was received in this country by the same vessel that 
brought over Lafayette ; they were mianned by a company 
of masters of vessels and others who volunteered for the 
occasion. The resort to the eastern part of the bluff was 



10 

general at au early part of the morning, continuing to in- 
crease during the day; and at the time of the arrival was 
crowded with ladies and citizens, on every part which 
could command a view of the landing. A temporary land- 
ing was erected at the wharf, consisting of a flight of 
steps and a platform. During the morning many an eye 
was strained in the hopeless task of transforming the fog 
banks and mists which hung over the low lauds between 
Savannah and Tybee, into the steam boat bearing the 
guest of the nation. About o'clock, however, the mists 
dispersed, the skies were cleared, and the remainder 
of the day was as pleasant and delightful as spring and a 
balmy atmosphere could make it. At the time the weath- 
er cleared up, a gentle breeze arose, blowing directly up 
the river, as if to add speed to the vessel which was to 
land him on our shores. At an early hour the Commit- 
tee of deception, deputed from the Joint Committee, to- 
gether with Colonels Brailsford and Randolph, Aids of 
His Excellency Governor Troup, proceeded to Fort Jack- 
son in three barges, decorated with flags, rowed by sea- 
men, in blue jackets and white trowsers under the com- 
mand of Capts. Nicolls, Camiphdl o.nd Dubois. 

The flrst notice of the arrival of the welcome vessel, 
was by a few strokes of the Exchange Bell. A few min- 
utes after, the volume of smoke which accompanied her 
was perceptable over the land; she was then about 
twelve or flfteen miles oil", but rapidly approaching. The 
intelligence "the boat's in sight" spread with electrical 
rapidity, and the bustle which had in some measure sub- 
sided, recommenced, and every one repaired to the spot 
where his landing was to take place. The troops were 
immediately formed and marched to the lower part of Bay 
street, where they were placed in position on the green, 
in front of the avenue ot trees, their right on East Bay. 
A more gallant and splendid military display we have 
never seen ; the elfect was beautiful ; every corps exceeded 
its customary numbers; many who had not appeared un- 
der arms for year, shouldered them on this occasion, and 
the usual pride of appearance and honorable emulation, 



11 

was ten times increased by the occasioD. Those who 
know the Volunteer companies of Savannah, will believe 
this to be no empty compliment. 

As the steam boat passed Fort Jackson, she was board- 
ed by the Committee of Reception, on their ascending 
the deck the General was addressed by their Chairman 
George Jones, Esq., as follows: 

"General — This committee, the representatives of a gen- 
eral committee of the City Council and of the Civil and 
Military Citizens of Savannah, offer yon on behalf of them- 
selves and their fellow citizens, congratulations upon 3'our 
safe arrival, and a sincere welcome to the State of Geor- 
gia. They invite you to accompany them to the shore 
where their ancestors, with their beloved Oglethorpe, 
first landed; and thus afford them an opportunity of dis- 
charging the pleasing duty assigned them of presenting 
you to his Excellency the Governor of the State and the 
civil authority of the City, who with a greatful people, 
anxiously wait to receive you with a heartfelt welcome." 

An address was also delivered by Col. Brailsford in 
behalf of Governor Troup. 

To both these addresses the General macie an appro- 
priate reply, expressive of the pleasure he felt at visiting 
Georgia. 

The boat now came up in gallant style firing bj- the 
way, and a full band of music on board playing, the Mar- 
seilles Hymn, and other favorite French and American 
airs. Her appearance was imposing and beautiful, to 
which the splendid and glittering uniforms of the officers 
from South Carolina who attended the General, greatly 
added. As the steamboat came up to her anchorage, a sa- 
lute was fired by the Revenue Cutter Gallatin, Capt. Mat- 
thews. General Lafayette was now assisted into the first 
barge accompanied by the committee and others, the 
other boats being occupied by the remainder of the suit. 

As the boat reached the shore, the excitement in every 
face increased. A line was then formed from the land- 
ing place on the wharf, facing inwards, composed of the 
Mayor and Aldermen of the city, the Clergy, the Judges 



12 

and Officers of the District Court, the Superior Court, 
aiid the Court of Oyer and Terminer; the Union Society; 
Deputations from the Hibernian Society, with their 
badges and banner; from the St. Andrew's Society, with 
their badges; and from the Agricultural Society, with 
their badges; and citizens. 

The officers and gentlemen who accompanied the Gen- 
eral in the steam boat from Charleston, besides the 
(governor of that State, were Col. F. K. Iluger, Major 
Gen. Youngblood, Gen, Geddes, Adj. Gen. Earle, Col. 
Keith, Col. Butler, Col. Chesnutt, Col. Brown, Col. Clou- 
nie. Col. Fitsimmons, Col. Taylor, Maj. Warley, Maj. 
Hamilton, Capt. Moses and Messrs. Bee and M'Chord. 
Col. Iluger and Maj. Hamilton, alone accepted the invi- 
tation of the committee to land and participate in the cer- 
emonies of the procession; the Constitution of South 
Carolina having prohibited the Governor of that State 
from passing its limits, obliging him to decline the civili- 
ty of the committee; and courtesy to the Chief Magistrate 
of their State, no doubt was the dominant motive with 
the officers who accompanied him in likewise declining 
the invitation to join in the review and procession. 

As the General placed his foot upon the landing place 
a salute was fired by the Chatham Artillery in line on 
the BlufJ, with four brass field pieces, 4 & 6 pounders, 
one of which was caj)tured at Yorktown. He was here 
received by Wm. C^ Daniell, Esq. Mayor of the city. Six 
cheers were now given by the whole of the citizens who 
were assembled on the gratifying occasion; for which 
the General expressed his grateful acknowledgements to 
those nearest him; Supported by the Mayor, and attend- 
ed by the Committee of Reception, he now^ ascended the 
Bluff, followed by his suite, the members of the Corpora- 
tion, the Societies and Citizens. Here he was again en- 
thusiastically cheered. On arriving at the top of the Blulf, 
on the green, he was presented to Governor Troup, by 
whom, in the most feeling manner, he was welcomed to 
the soil of Georgia, The following is the address of 
Governor Troup: 



13 

"General — 

'Tis little more than ninety years since the founder of 
this State first set foot upon the bank on which you stand. 
Now, four hundred thousand people open their arms to 
receive you. Thanks to a kind providence, it called you 
to the standard of Liberty in the hopelessness of our 
early revolution ; it has preserved you, that in your latter 
day the glory of a great Empire might be reflected back 
upon you, amid the acclamations of millions. 

"The scenes which are to come will be, for you, com- 
paratively tranquil and placid; there will be no more of 
dungeons, no more frowns of Tyrants. Oh Sir! what a 
consolation for a man, who has passed through such seas 
of troubles, that the million of bayonets which guard the 
blessings we enjoy, will stand between you and them. 
But enough, welcome General, welcome; thrice welcome 
to the State of Georgia." 

To this address, the General, his feelings evidently 
affected, delivered the following reply : 

"The kind invitation I first received from your Ex- 
cellency, and which, on the meeting of the General Assem- 
bly, was bestowed on me by both houses in terms most 
gratifying, could not but confirm my eager resolution to 
visit the State of Georgia. This State, Sir, I had not the 
good fortune to serve on its own soil; but our more north- 
ern movements were not unconnected with its safety and 
rescue. I have long been attached to it by my sense of its 
patriotism suffering, and exertions, by personal obligation 
and private affections. Permit me here to express a re- 
gret at the rapidity of my happy visit through the several 
States. The celebration of the greatest of all birth days 
at the seat of the General Government, could not be 
omitted, and although I have been obliged to sacrifice 
the motives of propriety, and the feelings of personal 
friendships, which called me to witness the inauguration 
of the executive branch of the Union, I could not so give 
up the honorable part conferred upon me, on the half- 
secular Jubilee of Bunker's Ilill, as the representative, 



14 

being the only surviving Major General, of the Revolutiou- 
ary Army. My dear sir, I am happy to witness the im- 
provements, which within less than a ceutur}' of existence, 
and iifty years of independence, have attended, in this 
State, the blessings of Republican institutions. Accept, 
if you please, for yourself and the two houses of the Leg- 
islature, my most aftectionate and respectful thanks.'" 

He was tlien introduced to several revolutionary soldi- 
ers, among tliose present, were Gen. Stewart, Col. Shell- 
man, Ehen Jackson, Sheftall Sheftall and Capt. Kees. 
The utmost animation appeared to sparcle in the eyes of 
the General at this time. This was particularly the case, 
when tlie latter addressing him with a cordial grip of the 
hand, said "I remember you! I saw you in Philadelphia!" 
and proceeded to narrate some trifling incidents of the 
occasion; to which the General replied "Ah! I remem- 
ber!" and taking Capt. Rees" hand between both of his, 
the eyes of each glistening with pleasure, they stood for 
a few moments apparently absorbed in recollections of 
the days of their youth. The officers of the brigade and 
of the regiment were then introduced. Whilst these in- 
troductions were going on, a salute was fired along the 
whole line of infantry. The General and suite, together 
with the Governor and suite, the Revolutionary officers, 
Mayor, Committee of Reception, Guests, Gen. Harden 
and suite, Col. McAlister, and the Field officers from the 
adjoining counties, proceeded on foot down the front of 
the line, in review. After passing the troops the General 
ascended the carriage prepared for his reception, and the 
procession moved in the following order: 

1. F. M. Stone, Marsl)al of the Citj^ with staff of office. 

2. Divisions of the Georgia Hussars, Liberty and Mln- 

tosh Troops of Cavalry. 
Jaa. Barnard, First Marshal, with staff. 

3. Gen. LAFAYETTE, and Governor TROUP, in a 

Landau drawn by four Gray horses. 

4. The Mayor of the City and Colonel Huger, in a se- 

cond carriage. 



15 

o. G. W. Lafayette and Mr. LeVassenr, in a third car- 
riage. 

6. lievolutiunary Officers in a fourth carriage. 

7. Brigadier General, the suites of the Govenor and the 

General. 
J. Habersham, Second Marshal and staff. 

8. The Committee of Council, of the Citizens and of 

Oflicers. 

9. Aldermen. 

10. The Rev. Clergy, Judges, Officers of the U. States, 

Consuls, Officers of Courts. 
A. Cope, Third Marshal with staff. 

11. The Union, the Hibernian, the St. Andrews and the 
Agricultural Societies [E. Bourquin, 4th Marshal, 
S. M.Bond, oth Marshal.] Citizens in ranks of 8. 

Joseph S. Pelot, 6th Marshal. 

12. Divisions of the Georgia Hussars, Liberty and M'ln- 

tosh Troops of Cavalry. 

13. Field Officers of other Regiments. 

14. Officers of the Army and Navy. 

15. Compan}' Officers of the first and other Regiments. 

Lieutenant Colonel. 
C/hatham Artillery. 
United States Troops. 
Savannah Fencibles. 
Savannah Volunteer Guards. 
Georgia Volunteers. 
Republican Blues. 
Savannah Juvenile Guards. 
Major and Regimental Staff. 
The procession moved up East Broad Street to 
B rough ton, from thence to West Broad, from thence to 
South Broad, down that street to Abercorn, and through 
Aberconi to Oglethorpe square. 

When the procession commenced moving, a third salute 
was fired by the Marine corps, which we have heretofore 
mentioned. We should not forget to mention that the 
seamen who rowed the boats, in which the General land- 
ed, accompanied the carriage in which he was seated, 



16 

with the flags of their boats. The procession moved as 
prescribed in tlic arrangements of the day, and about 
half past five o'clock in the afternoon, he arrived at the 
lodgings appropriated for him at Mrs. Maxwell's, the 
same in which Gov. Troiip resided. Thetimeof his land- 
ing was at 3 o'clock; so that the reception and proces- 
sion took up about two hours and a half. The troops 
then filed off to the South common and fired a national 
salute, after which they returned to the quarters of the 
General, to whom they paid the marching salute. During 
the passage of the procession, the windows and doors as 
well as the spacious streets through which he passed, were 
crowded to excess; and the expression of enthusiastic 
feeling was repeatedly displayed by all, from highest to 
the lowest, lie was saluted by the ladies from every 
place affording a view of the procession, by the waving 
of handkerchiefs, which he returned by repeated and 
continued inclination of the head, bowing in acknow- 
ledgement. At sundown another salute was fired by the 
marine volunteer corps. 

Such was the inspiring and joyful spectacle produced 
by the reception of General Lafayette in our city. We 
had witnessed with deep interest, his continued progress 
through our sister States, and at length received him at 
our borders with proud emotions, to introduce him to 
new scenes and new associations; and in the fervor of 
our affection to continue that triumph which commenced 
with his first landing on our shores; a triumph more 
glorious than Rome in the days of her greatest splendor 
and power, ever bestowed upon her blood-stained con- 
querors. It is true no rich spoils swelled the length of his 
train; no fettered captives followed his Triumphal Car; 
no rrnotorian Bands were there to enforce reluctant obe- 
dience to the decree of a degenerated Senate — these were 
not wanting to give lustre to his reception. There was 
a moral grandeur in the spectacle, which required no 
borrowed brightness from the pageantry and pomp of 
power. Its unrivalled majesty here, as in all other parts 



17 

of our country, consisted in this, that time had restored 
him to us spotless and without reproach, and that we in 
the full and free enjoyment of that liberty which he as- 
sisted to achieve, were capable and willing to give un- 
restrained expression to our devotion and gratitude to- 
wards him. In giving expression to our feelings, the 
conscious dignity of freedom has been preserved amidst 
pludits which rent the air, and every one felt that he 
was free to give or to withhold his applause and his ad- 
miration. 

On no previous occasion have we seen so splendid a 
military display in this city as on this; none so numer- 
ous ; and we do not hesitate to vsay, that it may have 
been equalled; but has not been surpassed in the South 
on the same occasion. Nor have we on any occasion 
seen in a crowd of anxious citizens so ready a compli- 
ance with the wishes of the Marshals and others entrus- 
ted with the formation of the procession. Every indiv- 
idual seemed to be impressed with the sentiment, that 
the strongest expression of devotion and attachment to 
the General, was to be evinced by the observance of pub- 
lic decorum; and so general did the feeling become, 
that it appeared as if the whole multitude moved under 
its uninterrupted influence. The arrangements were 
carried into etlect with regularity and precision, and in 
line, a day of more enthusiastic and honorable feeling 
of purer enjoyment, or more distinguished for the luxu- 
riance of patriotic feeling, was never witnessed among a 
happy and delighted people. 

THE MAYOR'S ADDRESS. 

Soon alter the dismissal of the Civic Procession, the 
Mayor and Aldermen again met at the Exchange, and 
with the City Marshal at their head, with the insignia of 
his office, proceeded to the lodgings of Gen. Lafayette. 
They were immediately received by the General, to whom 
the following address w^as delivered by the Mayor. 

General — "The citizens of Savannah receive you with 
the most grateful emotions. In you they behold their 



18 

couutry's early aud steadfast, friend who, spurning the 
allurements of rank and affluence at home, devoted him- 
self to the cause of an infant and an alien people, resis- 
ting oppression in a most unequal and fearful conflict. 

"In the history of the war of the revolution, your ar- 
rival upon our shores constitutes a highly important era. 
To the harassed soldiery, it imparted additional vigor ; 
to our exhausted country it gave new hopes ; and to the 
cause of Liberty, a powerful and a faithful ally. To the 
glorious termination of that war, you largely contributed. 
The establishment of a Republican form of Goverment, 
as necessarily resulted from the nature of the war which 
preceded it, as from the character of the i)eople who 
waged that war. The peculiarity of that form as happy 
as it is singular, is the proudest monument of human 
wisdom and virtue. 

"After the lapse of near halt a century, you revisit the 
scenes of your early glory and renown. Few indeed of 
your old companions survive to embrace you. We their 
descendants, rich in the inheritance of their glory and 
their achievements, welcome you in the name, and as 
the friend of our fathers. In our national independence, 
in our political institutions, in our civil and religious 
principles, in the diffusion of knowledge, and in our in- 
dividual prosperity and happiness, behold the achieve- 
ments of the heroes of the revolution. In the. hearts of 
the American people, your services and }our glory are 
consecrated; and so long as they are worthy of the lib-. 
erties which they now enjoy, so long will they hold in 
the most grateful reverence the names of those to whom 
they are indebted for them ; and so long will they shout 
with the warmest enthusiasm, the names of Washington 
and Lafayette." 

The General immediately replied in the following 
terms: 

"I am happy, sir, to enjoy the long wished-for gratifi- 
cation of a visit to this interesting and classic city, 
where you so kindly welcome me. You are pleased to 



19 

speak of friendly emotions. Sir, my own feelings on 
this occasion are most lively and multiplied. While I 
rejoice in the honorable and afiectionate reception from 
the citizens of Savannah, in the prosperity and happi- 
ness which this city presents to a patriotic eye, I for the 
first time approach the spot where the blood of two na- 
'tions has been shed in a common cause; where Pulaski 
fell, and Laurens planted the American standard. It is 
to me a cherished thought, that although the wounds of 
d'Estaing, and the gallant devotion of Lincoln, were not 
rewarded with success, the remembrance of that day 
must be one of the bonds of mutual friendship and good 
wishes. There also is the tomb of ray dear companion 
and friend, the great and good Greene. Amidst these 
sentiments I am highly sensible of the kindness of the 
people of Savannah in my behalf, and beg them and 
you, Mr. Mayor, to accept my respectful, affectionate ac- 
knowledgements." 

The City Council then returned to the Exchange after 
which they separated. 

THE DINNER. 

The dinner of the citizens, which was prepared at four 
o'clock, owing to the late hour at which Gen. Lafayette 
arrived was necessarily delayed. It however took place 
at seven o'clock, when the company set down in the 
Council Chamber, which was prepared for the occasion 
with arches, branches, &c., of which we shall have occa- 
sion to speak hereafter. It comprised a profusion of sub- 
stantial fare, and every delicacy of the season. The com- 
pany including the guests, were at least three hundred in 
number. The Mayor presided, assisted by Geo. Jones, 
1st Vice President ; Charles Harris, 2d do.; W. B. 
Bulloch, 3d do.; Dr. John Gumming, 4th do.; William 
Davies; 5th do.; and George Anderson, 6th do. Among 
the guests, besides Gen. Lafayette, were Col. Francis K. 
Huger, George Washington Lafayette, Monsieur Le 
Vasseur, and the officers from South Carolina, who ac- 
companied the General, viz : Maj. Gen. Youngblood, Gen. 



20 

Geddes, Cols. Keith, Butler, Chesnutt, Brown, Clounie, 
Fitzsinimons, and Taylor, Majs. Hamilton and Warley, 
Capt. Moses, and Messrs. Bee and M'Chord, there were 
also present Col. Mufat, Gen, Stewart, Capt. Rees, Col. 
M'Allister, Capt. Maxwell, and the other officers of 
the Liberty and M'Intosh Cavalry, and the several Cler- 
gytWGU of the city. In the centre window back of the seats 
of the Mayor and Gen. Lafayette appeared a transparency 
reprosontiijg Gen. Lafayette, over which was a scroll in- 
scribed "He fought for us." In the opposite window 
Washington inscribed in like manner "The Father of his 
Country." The centre window in front presented an alle- 
gorical transparency representing a monument surmounted 
by a bust of Lafayette, on one side .Liberty, on the other 
}iistory, presenting a tablet inscribed with the dates of 
the arrival in America of Lafayette, of his appointment as 
Major General, of his being wounded at Brandy wine, and 
that of the surrender at Yorktown. 

The following is a copy of the toasts which were given : 

1st. The Constitution of the United States — Its level 
the people's rights, its power their protection, its protec- 
tion their virtue. 

2d. Georgia — Rich in her resources, rich in the boun- 
ties of nature, and rich in the spirit and enterprise of her 
people ; we look to the wisdow of her rulers for the im- 
provement of these advantages. 

3d. Washington — A name associated with every eno- 
bling quality of man ; his fame is identified with our liis- 
tory, and its lustre will be reflected upon ages yet to 
come. 

4th. Lafayette — The name shall be a badge worn in 
the hour oi peril, by freemen in every quarter of the globe, 
when their rights are assailed by oppression. 

Gen. Lafayette expressed his acknowledgements for the 
afi"ectionate welcome he had the happiness to receive from 
the citizens of Savannah, and particularly for their honor- 
able and so very gratifying toast — after which he begged 
leave to offer the following sentiment : 

The City of Savannah— And may her young prosperity 



21 

more and more show to the old world, the superiority of 
Republican institutions and self government. 

5th. The Heroes and Statesmen of '76 —In life or death 
equally the objects of our regard and veneration. 

6th. Tlie President of the United States — Although 
chosen amidst the conflict of public sentiment, the nation 
receives him as her chief magistrate and is ready to sup- 
port him in ths spirit of the Constitution. 

7th. The Republics of Mexico and South America — 
We hail them as of the nations of the earth, and may the 
voice of freemen ere long thunder from the Andes of Brazil 
the rights of man. 

8th. The Holy Alliance— The bitterness of political 
death to those who are ne frieuds to "the world or the 
world's Law." 

9th. Beautiful France — Munificent Patroness of Science 
and the Arts, nurse of Heroes^ — she shed her blood for us 
and we are grateful. 

10th. Wni. H. Crawford — His greatness is founded 
upon the qualities of his mind aud the viitnes of his heart 
— public station has only served to illustrate it, and private 
life cannot detract from it. 

11th. The People — The spontaneous burst of their 
gratitude to one of the early champions of their country's 
freedom, speaks a moral lesson to the nations of the 
world, that will not be disregarded. 

12th. The Army and Navy of the United States — 
Niagara, New-Orleans, the Lakes and the Ocean, proclaim 
their victories and perpetuate their glory. 

13th. Woman — The graces of her mind refine our 
manners, the virtues of her heart correct our morals, and 
civiHzed man derives his strongest impulse to excellence 
from the hope of her approbation. 

A deputation was sent during dinner to wait upon His 
Excellency Governor Manning of South Carolina, on board 
the steamboat Henry Shultz, then at anchor in the river. 

The deputation was composed of Cols. Brailsford and 
Randolph, Aids of His Excellency Governor Troup, bear- 
ing a complimentary message from him, and of a commit- 



22 

tee from the citizens, composed of Richard W. Habersham, 
Esq., Col.E. F. Tattuall, Major W. T.Williams, and Capt. 
R. W. Pooler. 

Governor Manning; received the deputation with great 
politeness, expressing his regret that the constitution of 
his own State should have prohibited his landing on the 
the shores of another, and thus deprive him of the pleas- 
ure of participating in the festivities of the day. 

The President on the return of the committee, commu- 
nicated to the company the circumstances of the deputa- 
tion and gave a toast, :'Tho Governor of South Carolina," 
which was received with warmest approbation. Upon 
which, Maj. Gen. Youugblood of S. C, proposed as a vol- 
unteer toast, "The State of Georgia." 

VOLUNTEER TOASTS. 

By Gen. Lafayette — The memory of Gen. Greene. 

By Gov. Troup — The guest of the nation, in union with 
the volunteers and citizens of Georgia; a father surround- 
ed by his children — it is as it should be ; who can say that 
his civil or military virtues have contributed most to the 
benefit of mankind. 

By Geo. Washington Lafayette — The principles of '76 ; 
they will regenerate the whole world. 

By Mon. Le Vasseur — The year 1776 ; American youth 
have not degenerated from the principles of their fathers. 

By Col. Francis K. Huger— The youth of the U. S. 
may they see and feel that the admiration, esteem, and 
gratitude of the nation, are the highest and most honora- 
ble rewards of ambition. 

By Gen. Stewart — Our sister State South Carolina; near 
and dear to us. 

Maj. James Hamilton, Jr., from South Carolina, replied 
to the compliment from Gen. Stewart, and gave the fol- 
lowing toast : 

The State of Georgia — Founded by one of the most 
chivalrous and enterprising spirits of the age in which he 
lived, she has received a kindred impulse from his charac- 
ter ; may her prosperity be equal to the patriotism and 
gallantry of her sons. 



23 

By Col. E. F. Tattnall, in reply ^ — The memory of Gen, 
Marion, distinguished for every thing chivalric, for every 
thing patriotic, for every thing Carolinian. 

By Maj. Gen. Youngblood — The memory of Gen. Mont- 
gomery ; In the cause of freedom and self-government, 
our country, when in a sinking condition, made large 
drafts on the sons of Erin ; they were always honored. 

By Gen. Geddes — The memory of Gen. Pulaski, who 
died in defence of American liberty. 

By Col. Murat — Florida and Gen. Jackson to whom 
Floridians are indebted for being citizens of the United 
States. 

By the President — Col. Warren ; we sincerely regret 
that his bad health has deprived us of the pleasure of the 
company of a soldier who lost a limb in attempting to res- 
cue this city from its oppressors. 

By Geo. Jones, Esq. — The memory of Oglethorpe, the 
founder of Georgia. 

By Chas. Harris, Esq. — Gen. Jas. Screven, who fought 
for liberty and was killed by its enemies in defence of its 
sacred cause. 

By Wm. B. Bulloch, Esq. — Gen. Jas. Jackson, than 
whom a purer and more disinterested patriot Georgia 
never produced. 

By Dr. Jno. Gumming — The memory of Col. Jos. Hab- 
ersham ; the first in Georgia who raised his arm against 
regal power. 

By Wm. Davies, Esq. — Gen. John MTntosh, a hero of 
the the revolution. 

By Geo. Anderson, Esq. — The memory of Gen. Elbert. 

The General retired at this time. 

By Maj. Williams — De Kalb, Steuben, Pulaski, and yet 
another and a greater — the chivalry of other lands con- 
centrated in the cause of ours — their names are hallowed 
by the glory of their deeds, and ten millions of freemen 
express their gratitude to the survivor. 

By Col. Hunter — The memory of Dr. Noble Wimberly 
Jones ; the pupil of Oglethorge, a Kepublican in principle, 
a philanthropist in practice. 



24 

By Capt. Wm. Law — Our Republic ; constituted for the 
freedom and happiness of man, its stability is founded in 
the intelligence of its people, and the virtue of its rulers. 

By Lieut. Baker- The departed Heroes of the Revolu- 
tio)i, the stars of freedom, they have sunk to rest. 

By Capt, Higgins — This tribute of respect which eman- 
ates from the purest principles of the heart ; patriotism 
and gratitude. 

By Capt. Pooler — Our guest, Lafayette ; the Nobleman 
by birth, the Republican from principle. 

By Robert Campbell, (after the President had retired) 
-^The Mayor, W. C. Daniell, who has presided with so 
much ability and propriety at the present interesting fes- 
tival. 

By R. W. Habersham — The memory of Gen. Lachlan 
Mcintosh. 

By Lieut. Col. D'Lyon — Andrew Jackson, the people's 
choice for the Presidency ; through intrigue and bargain- 
ing have defeated his elevation, yet in their hearts he 
stands first among the independent Republican patriots of 
our country. 

By Col. Marshall — The memory of Pulaski, who fought 
for the liberty of his own land, and died in defence of 
ours. 

By Gen. Harden — The Generals Pinckney ; of a co- 
terminous and sister State ; patriots without fear or re- 
proach. 

By Col. M'Allister — The civic arrangements of this 
day, may be equalled but not excelled by our sister 
States. 

By Geo. B. Camming — Cobb and Berrien ; their vote 
on the Clay nomination is decisive of their principles. 

By Maj. Wayne — The oiHcers, non-commissioned offi- 
cers and privates of the squadron. 

By Dr. M'Connell — Gen. Lafayette, and his surviving 
compatriots throughout the Union. 

By Jos. V. Bevan, Esq.— The memory of Col. Baker- 
One of the most eminent partisans known to our own, or 
to ihe history of any other state; one indeed, who had 



25 

the additional merit of belonging to that county which 
gave to Georgia its first determined feeling for liberty. 

By Capt. John Davidson — The United States, the 
cradle of liberty ; may it never cease rocking the sons 
of freedom. 

By Capt. Stiles — The glories of Bolivar, the Wash- 
ington of South America. 

By Mr. Gwathmey — The inhabitants of LaGrange, 
may they be made as happy by the return of Lafayette, 
as we have been by his visit. 

By Ool. Dennis — The people's favorite, Gen. Andrew 
Jackson. 

The following song was composed for the occasion — 

BY GEORGE ROBERTSON, JR., 

Air— "Marseilles Hymn." 
Wheu thy banner, Liberty ! was streaming, 

Its folds wildly lashing tke gale; 
When they blade brightly, fiercely, was gleaming, 
And tyrants shrank bloodless and pale; 
Who o'er the field wheu horrors surrounded, 
Wheu victory and glory nigh, 
Nerv'd the arm and fir'd the eye. 
Hireling slaves with terror confounded, 
As they sunk, they sunk beneath, 

The avenging arm of death — 
Lafayette ! Lafayette ! hail Lafayette ! 
Our glorious Lafayette. 

Wheu fainting, weary, uncomplaining. 

Naked, bleeding, freedom's son, 
March'd to battle, pain disdaining, 
Glorious fought and glorious won; 
Who stauch'd the wounds all wet and gory, 
Cloth'd the naked, dried the tear 
01 beauty, lingering o'er the bier, 
Where bravery slumber'd, wrapt in glory? 
The minister of good. 

The youthful hero stood — 
Lafayatte ! Lafayette ! hail Lafayette ! 
Our godlike Lafayette. 



26 

Sons of Sires, now in f^lory deKoended, 

Whose warm blood freely firaok'd on tbe plain, 
The lov'd land which their valor defended, 
Their brother revisits again: 
Khali aught from onr souls e'er displace them ? 
No ! their wounds afresh would bleed, 
No ! their ghosts would curse the seed, 
That, degenerate and base could disgrace them. 
Their spirits hover round 

And catch the joyous sound — 
Lafayette ! Lafayette ! hail Lafayette ! 
Our father Lafayette ! 

Patriot Hero I Tyrants, trembling, 

Murder, rapine, on their brow. 
Their hireling slaves assembling. 
They destruction daring vow: 
Wilt thou leave then they children, despising 
The ire of the despot and slave, 
And sword and daggers brave, 
O'er danger ever proudly rising? 

Hear, hear, our fervent prayer, 

Yet shun the tiger's lair — 
Lafayette ! Lafayette ! hail Lafayette ! 
Our homes are thine Lafayette. 

And shall they, dare they, e'er oppress thee. 

Patriot, father of the free ! 
Or with vile chains again depress thee. 
Champion, chief, of Liberty ! 
No ! By freedom's altars flaming. 
By the blood for glory shed. 
By the great, the glorious dead, 
Who fell, the rights of men proclaiming — 
Shall vengeance fall upon 

The lov'd of Washington? 
Lafayette ! Lafayette ! we swear, we swear to die. 
For Liberty and Lafayette ! 



27 

THE ILLUiVirNATION. 

At night the Exchange was brilliantly illuminated with 
variegated lamps; the City Hotel was also illumina- 
ted, and a large transparency exhibited; the Lafayette 
Coliee Ilouse was illuminated, and a large transparency 
descriptive of the landing of Lafayette at Georgetown 
exhibited; Gaudry and Herbert's Confectionery was also 
illuminated; Seitz's Porter House; the Georgian Office, 
&c., &c. 

Thus concluded a day which will be long remembered 
in this city. No accident occurred, and the whole passed 
ofl with harmony and happiness we believe, to all parties. 



SUNDAY, MARCH 20TH, 1825. 

This day at 10 o'clock, the General was waited upon 
by the Frenchmen and the descendants of Frenchmen 
resident in the city, when the following address was de- 
livered by Petit De Villers, Esq., their President. 

[TEANSLATION.] 

General — The French and descendants of French resi- 
ding in Savannah, come to ofl'er you the homage of their 
sincere participation in the sentiments of gratitude, res- 
pect and attachment, of which the good American people 
are giving you such distinguished testimonies. 

The Genius of France beheld in dark perspective, the 
approach of the fearful storm which threatened to ravage 
that beautiful country. He saw budding in your heart 
the germ of the warlike and philanthropic virtues of your 
illustrious ancestors; and he inspired you with the sub- 
lime idea of abandoning the happiness which was secured 
to you by your rank and fortune, under a government 
the very abuses of which were favorable to you, to come 
and embrace the cause and the career of the champion 
of Liberty; in order to prepare in this hemisphere, a 
hospitable asylum for those of your compatriots, whom 
the revolutionary events might banish from their homes. 
The French of all parties, have found in the United 
States that asylum, truly hospitible. They have been wel- 



28 

corned as distressed brethren; the various causes of their 
expatriation were respected and kept in silence. Mag- 
istrates and citizens inquired only into tlie wants of the 
emigrants, and hastened to relieve them. Of all the 
foreigners wiio have souglit refuge in this land of promise, 
the French were the most unfortunate; not finding any 
relation of consanguinity and being completely ignorant 
of the language of the country, they found themselves 
deprived of those moral resources and consolations, 
which could best alleviate their misery. Desirous of re- 
lieving their beneficent hosts from the contributions 
they had imposed upon themselves, and being deter- 
mined to struggle for their subsistence, thej' have en- 
gaged in persuits to which they were for the most part 
strangers; and have created for themselves, resources of 
industry, in a manner which has attracted the esteem 
and confidence of their new follow-citizens. 

The homage that you receive in this country General, 
is founded upon the most glorious motives that can 
honor humanity. You have eminently contributed to 
the establishment of a govertiment of which there ex- 
isted no model, and the institutions and successes of 
Avhich, excite the astonishment and the admiration of 
all other nations. Your name is associated with that of 
the most accomplished Hero of Liberty ; and like his, it 
will be for ever cherished by this grateful people, and 
transmitted to the remotest posterity. May the virtues 
and the energies which have guided and fixed the poli- 
tical destiny of the Americans, be perpetuated in the 
minds and hearts of their descen<iants ! And under the 
protection of the God they adore, preserve to them peace 
and happiness ! And may you General, long enjoy the 
august spectacle. 

[TRANSLATION.] 

Answer of General Lafayette to the address presented 
to him by the French and descendants of French. 

"It is with the utmost sensibility that amidst the kind- 
nesses so lavishly bestowed upon me, I find myself wel- 



29 

corned in tlie same manner by my French compatriots, 
and the descendants of French, who have found in this 
happy American land an asylum against persecution of 
so many diftereut natures, and all condemned by the true 
spirit of liberty. The affecting details of the friendly 
treatment they have received, and so well expressed by 
you sir, are doubly dear to my heart. I cherish the hope 
that the admiration excited l)y the institutions, to which 
the United States are indebted for so much prosperity, 
will not remain as an useless sentiment ; and that other 
nations will prefer to exercise, at a cheap rate, all their 
rights, rather than to pay heavily to support oppression, 
vexation and fetters. 

Keceive in the mean time, my dear compatriots, all the 
thanks and good wishes of the most grateful affection." 



At half past 10 o'clock he attended devine service at 
the Episcopal church, accompanied by the Governor and 
suite and the Mayor. 

The Rev. Mr, Carter, during his sermon, took occasion 
to advert to the presence of the General in terms so de- 
licate, yet so impressive, that, although the sermon has 
been published, we cannot forbear inserting a portion of it 
here. 

The argument designefl to be illustrated and enforced 
was, that in matters of religion there is no medium be- 
tween reward and punishment — that in the world to come 
all who are not distinguished by reward will be punished. 
For to be neglected and disregarded by God, will be mis- 
ery and shame. But to secure the favor of God, some- 
thing more is necessary than mere indiff'erance, or even 
than an inactive good will to his cause. The Christian 
life is compared to a warfare, and to him that overcometh, 
not to him that is indifferent or inactive, the reward of 
victory is assigned. 

In the prosecution of this argument the following al- 
lusion was introduced: 

"May I not be permitted, my brethren, to point you to 



30 

the scenes which are now passing before our eyes, as an 
illustration of our doctrine? In the days of our national 
probation; at the period when our country could offer to 
those who embraced her cause, though a glorious one, no 
other present reward than self denials, labors and suf- 
ferings; there were many in the world who wished us no 
ill; who lifted no standard of opposition to our freedom, 
nor wielded any weapon against our invaded and insul- 
ted rights — but this negative, this cold approbation of 
our sacred cause, would not have secured our independ- 
ence, and did not kindle in our bosoms towards them 
the tiame of gratitude, to them we did not feel that this 
tribute was due. Many there were also who not only 
wished us well, but who moreover performed lor us, 
deeds of courage and valor, in the defence of their own 
families and firesides; when their very thresholds were 
invaded by a ruthless foe. But to these, no eminent, no 
peculiar distinction, has been awarded by our hearts. 
They have gone down to their graves, or are scattered 
over the face of the land, in that obscurity which is the 
undistinguished lot of the common multitude. Many 
there were too who refused to step forward in the hour 
of trial and of danger, who refused to draw their swords 
in the defence of liberty, and the rights of man, who 
would nevertheless have gladly shared the glories of con- 
quest, and the blessings of freedom, after the had been 
secured beyond resistance. These our hearts pass by, 
unnoticed, disregarded and unknown. But to hhn who 
espoused our cause in the day of our direst and darkest 
necessity; who denied himself the indulgence ot a home 
of ease, of wealth and pleasure; who left far behind him 
a family and friends dear to his heart; who crossed a 
mightly ocean to endure toils, privations and sutlerings 
in our cause, and that of liberty, which was then almost 
sinking under the iron hand of despotism — it is to him, 
that the united voices of ten millions of freemen are at 
this day pouring forth their loud, their harmonious 
strains of gratitude and aftectiou. And if the prayers ot 



31 

a nation can procure felicity, both here and hereafter, 
it shall doubtless not fail to be the lot of him, who is 
now passing over our land, to witness the blessings of 
that liberty which he so generously and essentiall}^ aided 
to achieve." 



THE VISIT OF THE OFFICERS. 

The officers of the Chatham regiment and regimental 
stitf, during the morning paid a visit on board the steam 
boat to Gov. Manning and the officers who accompanied 
our guest from Charleston. They were received in the 
most hospitable manner. The Mayor likewise paid a 
visit on board ; soon after which the Henry Shultz got 
under way, and proceeded on her return to Charleston. 

General Lafayette and suite dined with the Governor 
as did also Gen. Stewart, Col. Huger, Col. Murat, Maj. 
O'Connor, the Mayor and Aldermen, and the joint Com- 
mittee of Arrangement. 

During the evening, owing to the necessity of the Gen- 
eral's departure before the ball, he received the visits of 
the ladies and citizens at the council chamber. An im- 
mense number attended to grasp the hand which had 
carried the sword in their country's cause in less pros- 
perous times. It was truly a Republican levee ; all were 
admitted, and all received the same proportion of the 
good man's attention. The room was crowded till nine 
o'clock when, supported by the Governor and the Mayor 
he retired amid the repeated cheers of the citizens. 



Monday, March 21. 

ADDRESS OF THE CLERGY. 

The clergy of all denominations waited on the Gen- 
eral this morning and bade him welcome to our city. 
The following address was delivered by the Rev. Mr. 
Carter. 

''Permit me sir, in behalf of the clergy of Savannah, 
to present you our most cordial congratulations on your 
visit to our city. 



32 

Among the blessings procured for us by that national 
iiulependeuce which you sir, so essentially and gener- 
ously aided our fathers to achieve ; by no means the 
least is that religious liberty which is here universally 
enjoyed. Here every man niay worship God according 
to the dictates of his own conscience, with none to 
molest or make him afraid. 

In our city are clergymen of various denominations, 
dwelling together as brethren in mutual charity and har- 
mony, reciprocating frequently acts of social intercourse 
and affection, each blessing God our common Father, 
for the religious toleration and liberty which we sever- 
ally enjoy. 

But sir, however we may differ from each other in 
some points of theology, permit me to assure you in be- 
half of my brethren and myself, that we all most cordial- 
ly and sincerely unite in oar supplications at the throne 
of Divine Grace, for your welfare and prosperity in this 
world, and especially for your eternal felicity in the 
world to come." 

To which the General made the following reply : 

"I am highly honored and gratified by the testimonies 
of esteem and friendship from the reverend Savannah 
clergy of every denomination. Am.erica sir, has given au 
example of true religious freedom to old Europe, where 
a limited toleration was alone admitted. So I will ob- 
serve that in religious, as well as political societies, elec- 
tion by the people is the best pledge of mutual confidence 
and regard. Be pleased gentlemen to accept my affec- 
tionate and respectful thanks." 



GREENE AND PULASKI MONUMENTS. 
The citizens of Savannah, considering that the visit of 
General Lafayette to their city, would afford a very fa- 
vorable opportunity for paying a tribute of gratitude, 
which had been too long withheld, determined to avail 
themselves of this happy and interesting occasion, to lay 
the corner stones of two monuments to be hereafter 



erected, the one to the memory of Gen. Nathanlal Greene, 
who was justly considered the saviour of the South in 
our revohitiouary struggle; and the other to the memory 
of Brigadier Count Pulaski, the brave Polander, who 
despairing of the cause of Liberty in his own country, had 
sacrificed his life while contending for the freedom of ours. 
A meeting of the citizens Avas therefore called on the 
evening of the 11th March, at which Col. John Shellman 
presided and J. V. Bevan, Esq. was appointed Secretary. 

Upon motion of W. C. Daniell, seconded by Dr. Read, 
it was, resolved — 

That a committee of seven, (including the Chairman) 
be appointed to make the necessary arrangements for the 
laying by Gen. Lafaj^ette of the corner-stones of Monu- 
ments to the memory of Generals Greene and Pulaski. 

Whereupon the following gentlemen were selected. 
John Shellman, Richard W.Habersham, 

James B. Read, Alexander Telfair, 

Wm. P. Marshall, Samuel B. Parkman, 
James P. Screven. 

It was subsequently determined by the committee, that 
the corner stone of the Monument to be erected in honor 
of Gen. Greene, should be laid in the middle of the east- 
ern section of Johnston's square; and that in honor of 
Gen. Count Pulaski, in the middle of the eastern section 
of Chippewa square, and sub-committees were appointed 
to request the co-operation of the several Masonic bodies 
and to make the necessary arrangements for the cere- 
monial. 

Accordingly the Masonic Brethren formed a proces- 
sion at their Grand Lodge Room, at 9 o'clock on Mon- 
day morning 21st March, accompanied by a band of 
Music, waited upon Gen. Lafayette at his lodgings. The 
High Priest, King and other ofiicers of the Georgia Royal 
Arch Chapter, were dressed in the full robes and jewels 
of their offices, accompanied with an elegant and ap- 
propriate banner. 

The Masonic procession then returned to the Exchange 
accompanied by the General and Governor and their 



34 

Buitea in carriageB, and uuited therafielves with the civic 
procession and escort and the whole moved in the follow- 
ing order, under the direction of Joseph S. Pelot, Grand 
Marshal. 

United States Troops. 

Field and Staff of Regiments. 

General OfKcers and suites. 

Citizens and strangers. 

Lafayette Committee. 

Judges and Sheriffs. 

Reverend Clergy — not Masons. 

Mayor and Aldermen. 

Governor and suite. 

Monument Committee. 

Masons in the following order — 

Grand Tyler, with a drawn sword. 

L'Esperauce Lodge. 

Union Lodge. 

Solomon's Lodge. 

Georgia Chapter. 

L'Esperauce Encampment. 
Members of the Grand Lodge, not otherwise stationed. 
A Past Master, with a Golden vessel containing Corn. 
Two Past Masters, with Silver vessels containing Wine 

and Oil. 
Principal Architect with Square, Plumb and Level. 
Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer. 
One large Light, bosne by a Past Master. 

The Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, borne by a 
Master of a Lodge, or Past Master, supported by 
two Stewards on the right and left. 
Two large Lights borne by Past Masters. 
Grand Chaplain. 
Other Masonic Clergy. 
Grand Wardens. 
Deputy Grand Masters. 
Past Grand Masters. 
Master of oldest Lodge, carrying Constitutions. 



35 
Grand Deacons with black rods, on aline nine feet apart. 

GRAND MASTER, with 

GENERAL LAFAYETTE and suite. 

Two Stewards with their rods 
Grand Sword bearer with drawn sword. 

The procession then moved to the site selected for the 
monument to General Greene. Upon reaching the arch 
opening into the square, the military escort wheeled to 
the left and formed fronting the square. The procession 
then halted and opened to the right and left to allow the 
rear to pass through it. The head of the procession on 
entering the enclosure, wheeled to the right and passed 
around the circle. 

Plere a most beautiful and interesting sight was pre- 
sented. Around the interior of the enclosure, the children 
from the various schools, upwards of five hundred in 
number, in neat and appropriate costumes, were arrang- 
ed with basket of flowers, with which they strewed the 
path of their venerable benefactor. The crowd of spec- 
tators outside of the enclosure, entirely hid these innocent 
little creatures from view, and this burst upon the sight 
like the creations of enchantment, on entering the area. 
Pleasure brightened in every eye, and happiness beamed 
in every countenance as they received the paternal sal- 
utation of our afl'ectionate guest. 

The procession having moved around the circle, the 
Masons and the Monument Committee, formed on the 
west of the excavation, and the remainder of the proces- 
sion arranged themselves on the east near the railing of 
the square. General Lafayette was then conducted to the 
platform at the verge of the spot prepared for the corner- 
stone, accompanied by the Grand Master, the Deputy 
Grand Master, the Grand Wardens, the Chaplain, the 
High Priest, the King and Scribe of Georgia Chapter, the 
Governor and suite, Col. Huger, G. W. Lafayette, Mr. Le 
Vasseur, and the Monument Committee. 

The ceremonies commenced with a national air from 
the band of music. 



36 

Col. John Shellman, the Chairmaa of the Monument 
Committee, then delivered the following address — 

Feilow-Citizens — We are assembled to place with ap- 
propriate solemnity, the corner-stones of monuments which 
the gratitude of a free people designs to elevate, in com- 
memoration of the fame, the virtues, and the sufferings of 
two distinguished soldiers of our revolutionary struggle. 

To raise monuments of renown to perpetuate the fame 
and cherish the memory of distinguished men, has been 
customary in all ages and all nations, from the humble 
tumulii of the new, to the lofty pyramids of the ancient 
world. 

As emblems of gratitude they mark a people's justice ; 
but their wisdom is displayed in the strong incentive 
which they furnish to the achievement of noble deeds. 
They lead youth to meditate on the honors which they in- 
scribe, and inspire that active emulation which is the 
source of moral dignity and national glory. When the 
actions and sufferings, the skill, the valor, and the public 
virtues of the mighty dead, are thus brought to the con- 
templation of aspiring youth, their young hearts must 
swell with enthusiasm, and the renown of their forefathers 
stimulate them in the cause of their country. They will 
cheerfully devote themselves to the good and glory of 
their age, under the animating hope that they too may be 
enrolled in the pages of history, and have their names in- 
scribed on the tablets of imperishable renown. 

Amoug the Greeks, who so well comprehended the glory 
and the reward of patriotism and valor, it was held sacri- 
legious to destroy a statue, even when the deserts of the 
honored were equivocal. How sacred then should be 
these testimonials of gratitude and of worth, dedicated by 
a people equal in sentiment, devoted to the fame of illus- 
trious men whose memories brighten in the scrutiny of 
time ; and reared on foundations laid by onfe of their no- 
blest compatriots in the struggles and triumphs of liberty. 
Yes fellow-citizens, they are doubly consecrated ; the hand 
which places these tributes of our gratitude, was among 
the first to grasp the sword in defence of man's dearest 



37 

rights, and to participate in the achievements that brought 
our country peace in the midst of glory. 

The names of the three hundred patriots who fell at 
Thermopylso were in the memory of every Spartan child. 
The American youth should recollect not only the names 
but the merits and exploits of every revolutionary patriot, 
and when they read on this monument the name of Greene 
may they fell proud in recounting the dangers and the 
triumphs, the forebearance and the valor of freedom's 
second champion in the cause of glory. Let them not seek 
examples for imitation in the mighty names of Greece and 
Rome, but train their young ambition by our own illustri- 
ous models, the beams of whose glory shine directl}' upon 
ourselves, with a more intense and vivifying influence. 
Let the citizens of Savannah ever remember with pride, 
that with them repose the ashes ot this gallant chieftain — 
that they are the guardians of the proudest relics of our 
proudest day. 

General — In behalf of ray fellow-citizens, and in full 
accordance with my own feelings I ask your co-operation 
in the sacred duties to be performed, in laying the foun- 
dation of a monument to be consecrated to the memory 
of Maj. Gen. Nathanael Greene. In the name of Liberty 
I ask you, as one of its earliest champions, to assist in 
dedicating to fame this memorial of the virtues and talents 
that adorned the life, and hallow the relics, of one of your 
noblest compeers in the cause of freedom. In the name 
of our common country, I ask you as a Revolutionary Sol- 
dier standing in solitary splendor by your dignities and 
your deeds of renown, to avouch, by laying this corner- 
stone, the deserts of a patriot hero, whose name like your 
own is enrolled on the brightest pages of our story, and 
whose cenotaph will be doubly venerated for the sake of 
him who founds it, and him whom it •ommemorates. 

Most Worshipful Grand Master — In accordance with the 
wishes of my fellow-citizens, and in the name of the Mon- 
ument Committee, I request you according to the rules 
of the Ancient Fraternity to which you belong, to offici- 



38 

ate on the present occasion of laying the corner-stone of 
the monument to be erected to the memory Gen. Greene." 
The General immediately rej^lied in the following 
terms. 

"The great and good man to whose memory we are pay- 
ing a tribute of respect, aflection, and regret, has acted 
in our revolutionary contest a part so glorious and so im- 
portant, that in the very name of Greene are remember- 
ed, all the virtues and talents which can illustrate the pa- 
triot, the statesman, and the military leader, yet it belongs 
to me his brother General, and I am proud to say his best 
friend, to you my dear sir, his gallant cotemporary and 
companion in arras, here to testily, that the benevolence 
of his heart was equal to the strength of his elevated, 
iirm, and extensive mind; the confidence and friendship 
reposed in him, has been one of the happiest results of 
the exquisite judgment which characterized our paternal 
chief. In the kindness of the State of Georgia towards 
him, the whole army felt themselves honored and bene- 
fitted; and now sir, I stand before you, before these rising 
generations, as a representative of that army, of Gen. 
Greene's departed or absent friends, to acknowledge the 
honors tendered to his tomb; to thank you all for the 
share that has been allowed to me, and you particularly, 
my dear sir, for your sympathy in my feelings in this 
awful and affecting solemnity." 

The Masonic ceremonies were then commenced by 
singing the following original song prepared for the oc- 
casion : 

BY A BKOTHEll OF SOLOMON'S LODGE. 

Author of light ! Adtbor of love, 

Look from Thy mercy seat above, 

And aid ns by Thy power, to raise 

A monument to deeds of praise. 

A monument to heroes gone. 
To heroes, who our battles won; 
Thy Spirit bade them to be free, 
And led them on to victory. 



S9 

Let marble ornmble iMt» earth; 
Let freedom's sons be lost in death; 
But let the patriot's fame resound 
'Till the Archangel's trump shall sound. 

God of our fathers, hear our prayer, 
Their children ask Thy holy care; 
Preserve our rights, preserve us free, 
Great God ! all glory be to Thee. 

The stone was then prepared for its place ; after which 
the Grand Chaplain, the Eev. Mr. Carter, delivered the 
following prayer. 

"Almighty, and most glorious Architect of the Universe, 
dispenser of all wisdom, and Father of all mercies, vouch- 
safe Thine aid we humbly beseech Thee, in the services 
and solemnities in which we are now engaged. May all 
things be done decently and in order. May the monu- 
ment which shall here be erected to the memory of depar- 
ted virtue, be a warning of terror to evil doers, and of 
praise to those who do well. And while we seek to com- 
memorate the virtues of those whose places on earth now 
know them no more, may we remember, that we also are 
but strangers and pilgrims here below ; that monuments 
of marble must perish under the mouldering power of 
time ; and that the only imperishable memorial which we 
can secure for our names, is to have them written in the 
Lamb's book of life. 

Let Thy blessing descend and rest in a special manner 
upon our distinguished brother, by whose hand we desire 
this foundation to be laid. May his name which is written 
in characters of gratitude upon the fleshly tables of our 
hearts, be also inscribed in the book of Thy mercy and 
salvation. And if in the course of Thy providence we 
shall see him no more upon earth after this day, may we 
all, through the riches of Divine Grace, meet him in that 
happy, that glorious land, where no monuments require to 
be erected, and no epitaphs to be written. 

Grant these our imperfect petitions, O Father of mer- 
cies through Jesus Christ our Lord — amen." 



40 

The Secretary of the Moniimeut Committee, Joseph V. 
Bevan, Esq,, bj' command of the Graucl Master, then de- 
posited the following memorials prepared for it. 

1. Proceedings of the citizens of Savannah, in rela- 
tion thereto ; and the preparatory measures of their com- 
mittee, together with the names of civil officers, and of 
the principal Masons ; . engrossed upon vellum by W. 
Bruen. 

2. A medallion of Lafayette — "the nation's guest." 

3. A medallion of Washington. 

4. A medallion of Greene. 

5. A medallion of Franklin. The three last executed 
by Mr. August G. Oemler of this city. 

6. The paper currency of Georgia in the year 1778. 

7. Continental money, the denomination $G0, presented 
by Mr. M'Niel. 

8. Specimen of the present paper currency of Georgia 
— presented by the Bank of the State of Georgia. 

9. Specimens of the present paper currency of the 
Federal Government in the United States — presented by 
the Bank of the State of Georgia. 

10. A cent from the mint of the State of New-Jer- 
sey, coined and issued previous to the formation of the 
present Constitution of the United States. 

11. Present coin of the United States. 

12. Numbers of the newspapers at present printed in 
this city — called the Savannah Republican, and the 
Georgian. 

13. A print representing the portrait of the late Dr. 
Kollock — presented by Messrs. S. C. & J. Schenk. 

14. Portrait of Gen. Charles Cotesworth Pinckney — 
presented also by the Messrs. Schenk. 

15. Morning's paper containing an account of the re- 
ception of Gen. Lafayette at Savannah, on the 19th day 
of March, 1825. 

16. Circular of the Monument Committee to the Citi- 
zens of Georgia. 

Immediately after the Secretary read the following 
inscription — 



41 

This Corner-Stone 
Of a Monument 

TO THE MEMORY OF 

MAJ. GEN. NATIIANAEL GREENE, 

WAS LAID BY 

GENERAL LAFAYETTE, 

At the request of the Citizens of Savannah, 
on the 21st of March, A. D. 1825. 

The Stone was lowered to the place prepared for it, 
while the band performed a solemn dirge, succeeded by 
Hail Columbia. 

The principal architect then presented to the Grand 
Master the square, plumb, and level. 

The Deputy Grand Master William Schley, who was 
deputed by the Grand Master to act, applied them to the 
stone, and pronounced iti to be ^Hvell formed, true and 
trusty." 

The gold and silver vessels were then brought to the 
platform, and delivered to the Deputy Grand Master and 
the two Wardens, who successively presented them to 
General Lafayette. The General then poured, according 
to the ancient ceremony, the corn, the wine, and the oil 
contained in them, upon the stone; repeating according 
to the prescribed ceremony, the following : "May the 
All-bounteous Author of nature bless the inhabitants of 
this place, with all the necessaries, conveniences and 
comforts of life; assist in the erection and completion of 
this building; protect the workmen against every acci- 
dent, and long preserve the structure from decay; and 
grant to us all, a supply of the corn of nourishment, the 
wine of refreshment, and the oil of joy. So mote it be ! 
Amen." 

Gen. Lafayette then descended to the stone, which he 
struck three times with a mallet; after which the public 
grand honors were given by the brethren. 

The High Priest of the Georgia Royal Arch Chapter, 
Jno. Olmstead, came forward with the vase of incense, 
and gave the benediction of Royal Arch Masons upon 
the Corner Stone. 



42 

The Deputy Grand Master then delivered over to the 
principal architect, the various implements of architec- 
ture, with the following address — 

"Brotlier Architect, to you is entrusted the superinten- 
dance of the workmen to be engaged in the erection of 
this Cenotaph to the memory of a departed soldier of 
the revolution — to the memory of the immortal Greene. 
You have seen the corner stone of this monument laid 
by him who was the personal friend and the compatriot 
in arms of the deceased; by him who was the great cham- 
pion of liberty in the two hemispheres, by him whom we 
are proud to call our fellow citizen — Gen. Lafayette, I 
deliver to you the various implements of architecture 
to be used in the glorious undertaking; and I charge you 
by all the ties that can bind a Mason to his fellows, to be 
faithful in the discharge of tile duties assigned you, doing 
justice to your employers and honor to yourself. 

A large stone slab was then lowered to its place over 
the stone, and a patriotic tune played by the band. 

The ceremonies at the monument were concluded by 
three vollies from the U. S. troops, who acted as the es- 
cort, commanded by Lieut. Munro. 

The solemn and imposing spectacle attracted a large 
concourse of spectators; the adjacent buildings, and that 
portion of the public square not occupied by the proces- 
sion were filled with persons; the solemn grandure of the 
ceremonies impressed every beholder with awe, and the 
unbroken silence which pervaded the assembled multitude 
evinced their high veneration for the dead, and their af- 
fectionate attachment to the living hero, whose sad office 
it was to bear a part in the melancholy services of the 
occasion. 

Upon leaving the consecrated spot, the procession 
moved around the circle and through the tasteful arch by 
which it entered the square. From this arch, beautifully 
ornamented with myrtle and cedar, was suspended a 
shield, on one side of which was inscribed, 



43 
GREENE, the friend of LAFAYETTE, 
and the Saviour of the South. 
On the reverse, 

GREENE died near Savannah, 
19th June, 1798. 
The original order of the procession being resamed, it 
moved to Chippewa square; at the entrance to which an 
arch similar in design and decoration, was erected, from 
which in like manner a shield was suspended; on the 
one side was inscribed 

PULASKI, 
"Always valiant, but always foe to kings"* 
On the opposite side was inscribed 

Pulaski fell at the siege of Savannah, 
9th October, 1779. 
On entering the enclosure the same arrangement and 
disposition was made as in the former case. 

Alexander Telfair Esq. one of the monument commit, 
tee then delivered the following address. 

Fellow citizens — We are assembled on the present oc- 
casion for the solemn, yet pleasing duty of doing h'om- 
ao-e to the illustrious dead. 

The records of history and the enduring monuments 
of brass and marble, sanctified it would seem by heaven 
in being preserved amidst the wreck of barbarism and the 
desolation of time, present examples for our imitation. 

Monuments erected by cotemporaries or posterity, in 
commemoration of great events, or as tributes to individ- 
ual excellence, furnish moral lessons to future genera- 
tions, whilst they stand as mementoes of the gratitude of 
those who rear the structures. 

Yielding to this noble impulse of our nature, you have 
just consecrated to the memory of Greene a monumental 
pile; this was a tribute to native valor, but in doing this 
you have not been unmindful of the just claims of the 

*This expression the historian Botta asserts, was made by Stanislaus, 
the king of Poland, when he heard of the death of Falaski, 



44 

foreign soldier. To Pulaski the gallant chivalrous Pu- 
laski, who driven from his native land by the resistless arm 
of despotism, but enamoured of liberty, became a volun- 
teer in our country's cause, and terminated his brilliant 
career before the lines of our city. You have directed the 
corner stone of a monument to be laid on this plain, 
vvhicli was crimsoned with his blood. Though not allied 
to us by the ties of a common country; placed by distance 
beyond the influence of original impulses and the grad- 
ual developement of motives and causes, he gazed from 
afar on the stupendous struggles of freemen in this west- 
ern world — catching the enthusiasm of liberty, he rush- 
ed to the field of glory and yielded up his life for the 
sacred cause of freedom. To unhappy Poland belongs 
the honor of giving him birth, but to America — the coun- 
try of his deeds and the scene of his glory — belongs the 
preservation of his fame and the record of his death. 
For ever sacred then be this spot to the memory of Pu- 
laski, and ever enduring this structure, raised by the mu- 
nificence and gratitude of a free people to a volunteer 
soldier. 

It is a pleasing circumstance that this occasion, grand in 
itself, should receive additional grandure from the pres- 
ence and cooperation of one, who moved by the same 
noble and disinterested love of freedom, left his home 
and his country and shared in the same toils and perils 
with him whom we have assembled to honor, presenting 
in his own person a living emblem of his valor and worth. 

General — After the lapse of nearly half a century you 
have revisited the country of your adoption. In that 
space of time, death, which makes no distinction between 
the patriot and the traitor, has removed from amongst 
us many of our associates in arms. Though you are de- 
prived of the pleasing satisfaction of renewing, in the de- 
cline of life the intimacies of youth, the melancholy 
pleasure remains of revisiting the scenes of their strug- 
gles and triumphs, and of recalling the tender associations 
connected with their lives. This plain is replete with in- 



45 

cidents and circumstances of this nature, so dear to your 
heart, for on it the animating and interesting spectacle 
was presented of concert in the field of battle between 
France and America, and here in common graves repose 
the mingled ashes of the brave troops of Lincoln and D'- 
Estang, who fell in the unsuccessful but glorious effort 
of rescuing our city from the possession of the enemy. 

On this battle field, consecrated by the blood of French- 
men and Americans, we ask your aid, in concert with 
your masonic brethren, b}' laying this corner-stone of 
a monument dedicated to the memery of Gen. Pulaski." 

The General made the following reply — 

"It is in my life, a circumstance most affecting to me, 
that after having had the honor on the arrival of the gal- 
lant Pulaski on this shore, to introduce him to our Ameri- 
can army and its commander in chief; I now am called, 
after a lapse of eight and forty years, as a representative 
of that army, to lay the corner-stone of a monument erec- 
ted to his memory. Pulaski sir, had proved himself one 
of the most brilliant sons of which Poland has to boast ; 
he became one of the most devoted patriots and worthy 
soldiers in the cause and service of the United States. 
For them he gloriously laid down his life in the co-opera- 
tion under the command of Lincoln and D'Estang. That 
co-operation sir, I am happy to think with you, must be 
one of the bonds of union between the two nations ; one 
of which has attained the highest known degree of civili- 
zation, while in the other, the American principles of lib- 
erty and equality are generally cherished, and shall ulti- 
mately prevail." 

The following memorials were deposited in this monu- 
ment : 

1. Proceedings of the citizens of Savannah, in rela- 
tion thereto ; and the preparatory ineasures of their com- 
mittee, together with the names of civil officers, and of 
the principal Masons ; engrossed upon vellum by W. 
Bruen. 

2. A medallion of Lafayette — "the nation's guest." 



40 

3. A medallion of Washington and of Franklin, pre- 
pared by Mr. August G. Oemler of this city. 

4. The paper currency of Georgia in the year 1778. 

5. Specimen of the present paper currency of Georgia 
— presented by the Bank of the State of Georgia. 

6. Coin of the United States of America. 

7. A dollar of the Province of Rio de la Plata — pre- 
sented by M. E. Jon. Olmstead, High Priest of Georgia 
Chapter No. 3. 

8. A dollar of the Province of Candinamarca, in the 
Republic of Colombia — presented by Companion Samuel 
Philbrick, assistant Architect. 

9. Circular of the Monument Committee to the Citi- 
zens of Georgia. 

10. Numbers of the newspapers at present printed in 
this city — called the Savannah Republican, and the 
Georgian. 

11. Morning's paper containing an account of the re- 
ception of Gen. Lafayette at Savannah, on the 19th day 
of March, 1825. 

12. A medallion of Gen, Nathaniel Greene. 

13. A print representing the portrait of the late Dr. 
Kollock — presented by Messrs. S. C. & J. Schenk. 

Similar ceremonies on laying this stone as those on the 
prececdiug occasion were here repeated. 

The following prayer was then offered by the Rev. A. 
Carter, Grand Chaplain : 

"O eternal God, without whom nothing is strong, noth- 
ing is holy ; look down from heaven, we humbly beseech 
Thee, upon this solemn and interesting occasion, and in 
mercy, bless the work of our hands. And while we seek 
to perpetuate the memory of their virtues who are depar- 
ted from the earth, may we be careful to engraft these 
virtues upon our own life and conduct. In erecting here 
a monument of gratitude to a patron of liberty, who in 
the days of our national darkness and trial, left his native 
land and generously shed his blood in the defence of our 
civil freedom ; may we also cherish, with thankful hearts 
the remembrance of that greater sacrifice of Him, who 



• ■ 47 

left the blissful kingdom of His Father, and suffered and 
died, to redeem tlie world from the iron bondage of sin 
and everlasting death. 

Again we supplicate Thy blessings upon our venerated 
brother, whose presence and assistance add peculiar inter- 
est to the solemnities ol this occasion. And while he 
assists lis to raise a memorial of gratitude to a departed 
friend of. liberty, do thou, O Father of mercies, assist him 
to become an imperishable pillar in that spiritual temple, 
of which Jesus Christ is the chief corner-stone; that tem- 
ple not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 

Bless, O God, our Masonic fraternity here present. 
May holiness to the Lord, and good will to man be in- 
scribed upon our lives and conduct. 

Bless this assembly, and bless our land ; make us wor- 
thy of the distinguished civil and religious privileges which 
we enjoy; and finally bring us all into the perfect liberty of 
the sons of God, through Jesus Christ our Lord — Amen." 

The Deputy Grand Master, Brother Schley, here deliv- 
ered the following address to the architect. 

"Brother Architect — To you is entrusted the superin- 
tendance of the workmen to be engaged in the erection of 
this monument to the memory of an illustrious foreigner; 
who despairing of liberty in his native country, flew to a 
foieign land, and nobly died in the noblest cause that ever 
called forth the virtues and the energies of the heart — to 
the memory of Gen. Pulaski. The corner-stone has been 
laid by him, who like Pulaski, struggled, but more fortu- 
nate than him, lived to triumph in the cause of freedom, 
and now lives and receives the voluntary offering of a na- 
tion's gratitude ; the spontaneous homage of ten millions 
of freemen. 

To you I commit the various'^implements of Architec- 
ture to be used in the work ; and may you so discharge 
your duty, that this structure shall be beautiful as the 
temple, and durable as time." 

The procession then returned to the Exchange and was 
dismissed. 



48 

The inscription on the corner-stone of the monument to 
Pslaski is as follows , 

On the 21st day of March, A. D. 1827, 

WAS LAID BY 

GENERAL LAFAYETTE, 

At the request of the Citizens of Savannah, 

This Foundation-stone 

Of a Monument 

TO THE MEMORY OF 

BRIGADIER COUNT PULASKI. 

The Masonic ceremonies were concluded by an appro- 
priate prayer|from the Rev. Brother Stephen A. Mealy. 
Chaplain of L'Esperance Encampment ; and an Ode in 
honor of Masonry, sung .by the Brethren. 

The whole ceremony was of the most interesting and 
affecting nature. During the^time of p>lacing the corner- 
stones, minute guns were fired by[the corps of Marines, 
from the field pieces stationed on the top of the bluff: and 
a solemn dirge was played by the band of music. 



PRESENTATION OF THE BANNER. 

The General then proceeded to the bouse of Brig. Gen. 
Edvv. Harden, for the purpose of being present at the pre- 
senting of a superb standard, worked by the hands of 
the General's lady, for the first Regiment Georgia, Mili- 
tia, commanded by Col. James Marshall. At three 
o'clock the Regiment was marched to the house of Gen. 
Harden, where it was drawn up in close columns, the 
Cavalry on the right, Infantry iir the centre, and Artille- 
ry on the left, in front of a temporary platform, ornamen- 
ted with festoons of evergreen ; upon which were assem- 
bled the guest of the nation, Col. F. K, Huger, Gov- 
ernor Troup, the Mayor aud Aldermen, Gen. Harden 
and his staff, the fair donor who supported the flag, aud 
a crowd of ladies and gentlemen. Every house aud place 
in the neighbourhood, was crowded. After the Regi- 
ment was halted, Gov. Troup, in behalf of Mrs. Harden, 
addressed Col. Marshall as follows: 



49 

"Colonel — I present to yon, by command of Mrs. Har- 
den, a Standard of Colors for the first Regiment, worked 
by her own hands. It is a line ottering of the fair to the 
brave, in the presence of the veteran hero, whom all hearts 
delight to honor. I am happy to be the instrument of 
unfurling them for the first time before the Regiment. 
They are consecrated by the fair donor, and the pre- 
sence of the nation's guest. The hand which executed 
this beautiful work has painted in indelible colors the 
emblems which will guard them. Look on this picture, 
or on that — this repels dishonor, that animates to patri- 
otism and to deeds of valour. They cannot be tarnish- 
ed. Death before their inglorious surrender." 

Col. Marshall then stepped forward, received the stan- 
dared, and supporting it, the staff resting on the earth, 
delivered in an animated tone, the following reply: 

"The heart of a soldier, sir, is naturally inspired by 
the approbation of the fair; and it beats with increased 
emotion, when assured of their confidence. 

The presentation of this standard, rich in work and 
design, and illustrating the moral beauty of female pa- 
triotism, impresses on the minds of the officers and sol- 
diers of the first Regiment, the most lively sentiments of 
gratitude and pride. 

As the gift of a fair matron of Georgia, every soldier 
will more ardently determine to defend it; in the battle, 
all may be lost but this and our honor; these we will 
preserve untarnished. 

Presented by the hand of the Commander in Chief, 
and bearing on it the Arms of our State, we will always 
be reminded, that freeman war not to enslave others, but 
to defend their own liberties and sacred homes. 

Consecrated by the presence of the friend of Wash- 
ington and our Country, the time and occasion give birth 
to the noblest feelings; the impression is strong and will 
sink deeply in our hearts. When danger presses, and 
the battle storm rages, this Star-Spangled Banner shall 
be unfurled to the breeze — we will think with devotion 



50 

of the fair of our land ; we will remember the example 
of Lafayette; we will trust iu a kind Provideuce, aud 
prove ourselves soldiers of the Republic." 

He theu turned and addressed the Otiicers and Soldiers 
of the first regiment as^foUows — 

Officers and soldiers of the first regiment. On receiving 
this Standard I have promised much for you — by your 
respect for the fair, by your pride as soldiers, by your 
duty to your couutrj^, I charge you to preserve it in hon- 
or aud to surrender it only with your lives. 

The efl:ect produced upon the regiment may be judged 
from the words "we swear it,"' bursting from the whole 
column at this instant. 

On delivering the colors to the Sergeant, the Colonel 
addressed him in the following words. 

Sergeant Bulloch — You are honored in being the first 
bearer of this beautiful standard, your exemplary conduct 
as a soldier gives ample warrant that it ^v'ill be properly 
supported. 

As the colors were received by the Sergeant, three 
hearty cheers were given by the whole regiment; which 
then advanced to the front, and filed to the rear by suc- 
cessive divisions, and after performing several handsome 
evolutions, under the command of Major Williams, dis- 
played in front of the house, the Hussars and Chatham 
Artillery on the right, when Gen. Lafayette retired. A 
salute of twenty four guns was then fired by the Chatham 
Artillery, followed by a salute from the Infantry. The 
marching salute, to Gen. Harden and his lady, closed the 
imposing ceremony. 



MASONIC DINNER. 

About 3 o'clock Gen. Lafayette, accompanied by the 
Governor aud the Mayor, attended a masonic dinner given 
by the members of the Grand Lodge of Georgia, the sub- 
ordinate lodges of the city, the chapters and transient 
brethren. The hall was decorated on this occasion in a 
splendid manner. Among the decorations were three 



large allegorical paintings prepared by Mr. Rogers, and 
a full length portrait of Lafayette, with a Master Mason's 
aporn, executed by Mr. Goodacre, at present in this city. 
At the east end of the room was a painting representing 
the emblems of the Red Cross Knights, viz: three red 
crosses on a mount, at the foot of which the emblem of 
charity, the pelican feeding her brood. That in the west 
represented the arms of Royal Arch masonry, the quar- 
ters of the shield, with the lion, the ox, the man and the 
eagle, supported by cherubim, the crest and the ark of 
the covenant. At the side of the room the Master's car- 
pet. There were many other decorations, which were 
highly appropriate and tasteful. 

On the arrival of the General in the hall, Masonic hon- 
ors were paid to him, after which the Most Worshipful 
Jeremiah Cuyler, Grand Master, addressed him in an ap- 
propriate manner, assuring him ot the attachment of the 
fraternity to his person and their respect for his charac- 
ter; to which the General replied in grateful terms. 

A fervent and eloquent prayer was then offered up to 
the Throne of Grace by brother Geo. White, and the 
company sat down to a sumptuous repast prepared in the 
first style of elegance. The following toasts were drank 
on the occasion. 

1. Masonry — It inculcates doctrines heaven itself has blessed, as con- 
tained in the annunciation, "Peace on earth and good will to all mankind." 

2. Liberty and Equality^The foundations of Masonry, because in the 
Lodge the brethren are all freemen, and acknowledge no distinctions, 
civil or religious. 

3. The memory of George Washington — His devotion to Masonry is 
enough to convince the world, that it is not in hostility with virtue, order 
or good government. 

L Our Brother and the Guest of the Nation, Lafayette — Faith, Hope 
and Charity, have each contributed to cover him with glory — Hope, when 
she encouraged him to draw his sword in the cause of this nation's liberty 
— Faith, when she told him that cause was just — Charity, when she opened 
his purse to the wants of our brave but necessitous soldiery. 

On which Brother Lafayette rose, and in a peculiarly sensitive manner, 
gratefully and affectionately returned his thanks for the kindness shown 
by the Fraternity of the city of Savannah, and offered as a sentiment: 

"The Masonic Lodges and Grand Chapter of Georgia, and may their 
happiness be equal to the wishes of an affectionate brother." 

5. These United States— Our beloved country. 



52 

Brother C. A. Higgius, on bebalf of the committee, then gave as a 
volunteer: 

George M Troup, Governor of the State of Georgia — Not a Mason ! but 
none the less a Brother in feeling. 

To which the Governor rose and offered the following sentiment: 

The name of Masonry— Associated throughout the world with benevo- 
lent sentiments and libenil principles. 

6. Religion and Politics — May neither the one nor the other ever inter- 
fere with a Mason's respect tor cver^ persuasion, or the duties he owes to 
the government which protects him. 

7. Happiness to the people of the earth. 

8. The smiles of the Universal Parent upon Brethren throughout tho 
Globe. 

9. Mason's Wives and Mason's Daughters. 

VOLUNTEERS. 

By M. W. Jeremiah Cuyler, Grand Master presiding — Peace on earth 
and good will to all mankind. 

[After the guests had retired.] 

By R. W. Wm. Schley, Deputy Grand Master— Gen. Lafayette, the 
champion of liberty in the two hemispheres, and the friend and patron of 
Masonry. 

By brother W. C. Daniell , Mayor of the city — Who is there that has wit- 
nessed the solemn and imposing ceremonies of this day, who will not do 
justice to Masonry. 

By brother Moses Herbert, President of the Red Cross Chapter, 1st Vice 
President — The cause for which Warren bled and Washington triumphed. 

By brother J. Olmstead, High Priest of Georgia Chapter, 2d Vice Presi- 
dent — The Greene and Pulaski Monuments — May there be as much lib- 
erality evinced in their completion, as there has been zeal displayed in 
laying the foundation stones. 

By brother J Morrison, P. G. M. — Francis K. Huger, our brother; a 
name synonymous with chivalry and patriotism. 

By R. W. Wm. Schley, Deputy Grand Master — The Governor of Geor- 
gia; an honest statesman and virtuous man. 

By brother S. Harris — Masonry; in early ages it has been patronised, 
therefore unto the latter day may it never be dishonoied. 

By brother U. A. Boargaux — George Washington Lafayette; the worthy 
son ot a most worthy father. 

By brother Charles Bagley — Our illustrious brother Gen. Lafayette — He 
rose like the sun of Masonry in the East, shed his lustre upon us at his 
Meridian, in his decline he has emerged from the clouds which enveloped 
him, and millions in the West are worshiping his declining rays. 

By brother D. Carney, Jun. — Masonry; its own comment. 

By brother John A. Beaulard — The Masons of France and America ; 
brother Lafayette has cemented their union forever. 

By brother P. Wiltberger — 

The man who bears with virtuous pride, 
A Mason's sacred name; 

And may each brother who the blessing shares, 
Enrich the list of fame. 



53 

By brother E. F. Tattnall — Lafayette; in the hour of danger to liberty, 
his name shall ever be our watch-word. 

By brother J. M. Degounor — Gen. Latour Maubourg; the worthy son- 
in-law of Gen. Lafayette. 

By brother Seybrook — The worthy patrons of Masonry, Washington, 
Lafayette, and our venerable sage Benjamin Franklin. 

By brother J. S. Pelot — The true and accepted Mason, he finds a friend 
in every part of the Globe. 

By brother N. H. Olmstead — A white stone with a new name thereon — 
The gratitude of a Republic. 

By brother R. W. Pooler, Master of Solomon's Lodge — Truth and Inde- 
pendence, they are inseperable; may they ever triumph over malice and 
detraction. 

By brother L. H. Furth — Our holy alliance, Masonry; its pillars are lib- 
erty and equity; its arch charity. 

By brother J. P. Henry— Our friend and fellow-citizen, E. F. Tattnall; 
we hail his return with pleasure and delight. 

By brother R. K. Ten Broeck~Gen. Lafayette; the hero, the philanthro- 
pist — nature after having formed him broke the mould. 

By brother A. Bain — May Lafayette meet as welcome a reception in the 
Grand Lodge above, as he has done in this. 

By brother G. D. Sweet— De Witt Clinton, General Grand High Priest 
of the United States . 

By brother A, D'Lyon— Our guest, and the nation's guest; may the pres- 
ent day be the worst of his life. 

The General about 5 o'clock left his masonic brethren 
and retired to his lodgings, soon after the regiment arriv- 
ed in front of his quarters for the purpose of escorting 
him to the steamboat. As he assended to his carriage he 
was saluted by the line, and escorted to the spot where 
he had debarked. The General was accompanied by the 
Governor and suite, the Mayor, George Jones, Charles 
Harris, W. B. Bulloch, Dr. Read, Col. Murat, Alex. Tel- 
fair and Wm. Gaston, Esqrs. On the arrival of the Gen- 
eral at the head of the bluff, he descended from the car- 
riage and walked down to the boat when a salute was 
given by the Georgia Hussars, and a national salute fired 
by the Chatham Artillery. The officers of the regiment 
then proceeded to the boat and each took the departing 
hero by the hand, wishing him every happiness that could 
fall to a mortal's lot. The infantry then fired a salute, 
and the steamboat moved from the wharf amid loud and 
long huzzas from the citizens who lined the summit of 
the bluft. The cheering was returned from the boat and 



54 

patriotic tunes played by the baud on i)oard. as she as- 
sended the river, a parting salute of 24 guns was fired by 
the Marine corps. The Governor and Gen. Harden, ac- 
companied by their suites, and attended by the S. V. G's 
band, accompanied the General. Also the Mayor and a 
portion of the Coaimittee accompanied hira a few miles up 
the river, who there took an aiiectionate leave of hira. 

Thus passed from us the friend of Washington, the 
benefactor of our country, and the champion of liberty the 
venerable and beloved Lafayette. If there be any thing in 
the unaffected homage of republicans, who are indebted 
to him for much of the happiness and freedom they enjoy, 
or in the tender recollections and pure gratitude of the 
fair daughters of our country, whose patriotic mothers, 
the matrons of the revolution, taught them in their in- 
fancy to unite his name with that of Washington, and 
to lisp them both in reverence; if there be any thing in 
all this calculated to afiect the heart, and call forth the 
personal feelings of Lafayette, he must have enjoyed a 
more delicious feast of pure and elevated sentiment, than 
ever yet inspired the bosom of a conqueror or king from 
all the servile aduTation of courtly parasites or assem- 
bled slaves. 

Nor was the rich banquet of the soul enjoyed by our 
beloved and honored Guest alone. All from age to in- 
fancy, shared in this luxurious enjoyment on the occa- 
sion; and every one felt alive to an elevation of feeling 
and an expansion of sympathy, never before experienced. 
Like the Romans whose fortune it was to be present at 
the celebration of the secular games, each one felt the 
proud conciousness of witnessing that which was never 
seen before, and would never be seen again. 

Much credit is due to the steamboat company and 
Capt. Harford, for the elegant manner in which the 
steamboat Altamaha was fitted up, and their gratuitous 
offer of her, to convey the Nation's Guest to Augusta. 
Arpong other ornaments, she bore on a flag staff at her 
bow, a neat white fancy flag, on the upper corner of 
which was a circle ol thirteen stars, emblematical of the 



55 



origional thirteen States, in the centre an elegant eagle 
and directly underneath formiDg a half circle was the 
word LAFAYETTE. This flag was presented to the 
Committee in Augusta on his arrival in that city. 



<-.3 



